Fresno County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Fresno County, California with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fresno County

Located in San Joaquin Valley, California, Fresno County is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The county is known for its rich agricultural heritage, diverse culture, and stunning outdoor scenery. With over 3 million residents, Fresno County is one of the most populous counties in California.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Fresno County.

List of Places to Visit in Fresno County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fresno County boasts several museums and historical places that showcase the county’s unique culture and history. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • The Fresno Art Museum: This museum boasts a collection of contemporary art, traditional art, and photography. It also hosts frequent exhibitions and events.

  • The Fresno Chaffee Zoo: This award-winning zoo is home to over 190 species of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and exotic birds.

  • The Kearney Mansion Museum: This historic mansion was built in 1903 and showcases the luxurious lifestyle of the early 1900s.

  • The Meux Home Museum: This well-preserved Victorian-era home provides a glimpse into the lives of the Meux family during the late 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Fresno County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fresno County is home to several natural attractions that offer stunning scenic views and outdoor adventure activities. Some of the must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Yosemite National Park: This world-famous national park is located on the eastern edge of Fresno County. It boasts stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, meadows, and giant sequoias.

  • Kings Canyon National Park: This national park is located in the southern part of Fresno County. It is home to impressive canyons, waterfalls, and rock formations.

  • Shaver Lake: This picturesque lake is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

  • Sierra National Forest: This expansive forest covers over 1.3 million acres of land in Fresno County. It offers activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fresno County

Fresno County offers several hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore its scenic outdoor beauty. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Fresno County include:

  • The San Joaquin River Trail: This trail is one of the most popular in Fresno County and is known for its stunning views of the San Joaquin River.

  • The Lewis S. Eaton Trail: This trail is ideal for hiking and cycling and offers panoramic views of the San Joaquin Valley.

  • The Sugar Pine Trail: This route is ideal for beginners and offers a leisurely walk through the scenic foothills of Fresno County.

Best Things to Do in Fresno County: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Fresno County offers several other fun activities and tours. Some of the best things to do in Fresno County include:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Fresno County is known for its excellent wineries. Several wine tours are available that take visitors on a tour of the wineries, providing them with an opportunity to taste some of the best wines in the region.

  • River Rafting Tours: The San Joaquin River runs through Fresno County, offering a perfect opportunity for river rafting enthusiasts to experience the thrills of white water rafting.

  • Horseback Riding: Several horseback riding tours are available in Fresno County that allow visitors to explore the scenic valleys and foothills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fresno County

Fresno County offers so many attractions and activities that you could easily spend a week here without getting bored. Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Fresno County:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Fresno Art Museum
Day 2 Take a wine tour of the local wineries
Day 3 Hike the San Joaquin River Trail
Day 4 Explore the Yosemite National Park
Day 5 Visit the Kearney Mansion Museum
Day 6 Try river rafting on the San Joaquin River
Day 7 Go horseback riding in the foothills

Food and Drink Scene of Fresno County

Fresno County boasts a rich culinary scene that is influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Fresno County include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tri-tip Sandwich: This famous dish features tender beef served on a soft roll and is typically topped with barbecue sauce.

  • Basque Cuisine: Fresno County has a strong Basque heritage, and several restaurants specialize in Basque cuisine. Some of the popular dishes include lamb chops, beef tongue, and fried chicken.

  • Chili Verde: This hearty stew features tender pork cooked in a spicy green chili sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Fresno County is known for its excellent wines and boasts several wineries that offer wine tasting tours.

  • Craft Beer: Fresno County is also home to several microbreweries that specialize in craft beer.

  • Agua Fresca: This refreshing drink is popular in Fresno County and features fresh fruits mixed with water and sugar.

Where to Stay in Fresno County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fresno County offers several lodging options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Fresno County include:

  • Hotel Piccadilly: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Fresno and offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities.

  • The Madison Inn by Riversage: This boutique hotel is located in the Tower District of Fresno and features spacious suites and personalized service.

  • Yosemite Pines RV Resort: This resort is located on the western edge of Fresno County and offers luxurious cabins, RV sites, and camping options.

What to Buy in Fresno County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fresno County offers several unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home as a remembrance of their trip. Some of the best items to buy in Fresno County include:

  • Raisins: Fresno County is famous for its raisins, and several shops sell freshly packed raisins.

  • Fig Spread: Fresno County is known for its fig orchards, and several shops sell delicious fig spreads.

  • Local Art: Fresno County boasts several talented artists, and their works are available for purchase in several galleries and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Fresno County

Fresno County is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The county has a strong Hispanic and Basque heritage, and several festivals and events celebrate these cultures. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Fresno County

Fresno County can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall seasons when the temperatures are mild. During the summer season, the temperatures can soar, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fresno County

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the natural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fresno County

Fresno County is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors should take precautions against petty theft and crime.

Health in Fresno County

Visitors are advised to stay hydrated and use sunscreen when exploring the outdoor attractions. Water quality is generally good in Fresno County.

Getting to Fresno County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fresno County

Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the main airport serving Fresno County. It is located in Fresno and offers several domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Fresno County

The Greyhound Bus Station is the main bus station serving Fresno County. It is located in downtown Fresno and offers several bus routes to other parts of California and the United States.

Other Options

Several car rental companies operate in Fresno County, making it easy for visitors to explore the county at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Fresno County

Fresno County has several transportation options that make it easy for visitors to explore the county. Some of the popular transportation options include car rentals, taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Fresno County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fresno County is located in the heart of California and is surrounded by several exciting destinations that are worth exploring. Some of the nearby destinations include:

  • Sequoia National Park: This national park is located south of Fresno County and is famous for its giant sequoia trees.

  • Pismo Beach: This coastal town is located west of Fresno County and offers scenic beaches, dunes, and wineries.

  • Monterey: This coastal city is located north of Fresno County and is known for its world-class aquarium, historic buildings, and stunning coastline.

Conclusion

Fresno County offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. From the scenic hiking trails to the delicious cuisine, Fresno County has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Fresno County.



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